Ever wondered what happens when collegiate dreams meet professional realities? Despite UNLV football’s impressive turnaround, some of their brightest stars didn’t make the initial NFL 53-man rosters. But their journey isn’t over! Find out where these talented players landed and what their next steps are. Will they rise to the challenge?
The aspirations of several former UNLV football standouts to secure a spot on an NFL 53-man roster faced a significant hurdle this season, as none ultimately made the initial cut. Despite the recent resurgence and improved performance of the UNLV Rebels program over the past two seasons, the transition to professional football proved to be a formidable challenge for its most promising alumni. This outcome highlights the intense competition and demanding nature of carving out a career in the National Football League.
The UNLV football team has experienced a notable turnaround, demonstrating competitive prowess and developing key talent that garnered national attention. This period of success fueled optimism among fans and analysts alike, suggesting that the pipeline from Las Vegas to the NFL might be strengthening. However, the rigorous evaluation process and the depth of talent across all NFL teams mean that even standout collegiate performers often find themselves navigating a complex path to a permanent roster spot.
Among the hopefuls was linebacker Jackson Woodard, who earned the prestigious title of Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year in 2024, showcasing his exceptional skill and leadership on the field. Despite his collegiate accolades, Woodard went undrafted in the NFL Draft but quickly found a landing spot with the Houston Texans, signing on to their practice squad. This opportunity provides a vital pathway for him to continue developing his game and potentially earn an active roster spot in the future.
Safety Johnathan Baldwin also embarked on his professional journey after an impressive collegiate career, where he started 36 games over four seasons for the UNLV Rebels. His consistent performance and experience positioned him as a strong candidate for an NFL role. Following the roster reductions, Baldwin was secured by the Green Bay Packers for their practice squad, indicating that NFL organizations recognize his talent and potential for growth within their systems.
The allure of professional football extends beyond the NFL, as evidenced by offensive lineman Tiger Shanks. Shanks was a significant force on the UNLV offensive line and was ultimately selected as the fifth overall pick in the Canadian Football League (CFL) draft. He now plays for the Montreal Alouettes, demonstrating that there are diverse avenues for college football standouts to continue their their careers in professional leagues across North America.
The journey from college gridiron to professional football is fraught with challenges, requiring immense dedication, adaptability, and a bit of fortune. Many players who do not immediately make an NFL 53-man roster are often signed to practice squads, which serve as crucial development pools. These squads allow players to train with the team, learn the professional system, and be readily available to step up if injuries or performance issues arise on the main roster.
While the initial news might be disheartening for fans hoping to see their beloved UNLV stars immediately don NFL jerseys, the practice squad offers a legitimate second chance. Numerous NFL veterans began their careers on a practice squad, patiently working their way onto the active roster and eventually establishing themselves as key contributors. This underscores the fluid nature of NFL rosters throughout the season, providing ongoing opportunities for these talented individuals to make their mark in professional football.
The continued presence of former UNLV players in professional football, even on practice squads, signifies the growing quality of the program. It reflects the hard work of the athletes and coaching staff in preparing them for the next level. As these players hone their skills and adapt to the professional game, the hope remains that they will soon contribute significantly to their respective NFL teams, carrying the banner for UNLV football.
